Keene, 90, is a former dancer and one who still appreciates "the arts." She also remembers when art, music and theater became even more supported in Fort Myers and agrees that Berne Davis was, and is, one of the reasons why!

Like Keene, Davis not only enjoyed (still enjoys) the arts, but she also came to enjoy "all things" related to flower gardens. Her botanical interest was inspired by Thomas Edison's wife, Mina. As a result, Davis became involved in various garden clubs even years after Mina Edison's death (in 1947).

This long time local resident said that she is not a personal friend of Berne Davis, however she remembers Davis and her love for the arts.

"No, I learned about the party mostly by reading about it. I was so happy to hear that Berne Davis just celebrated her 100th. In less than a decade I hope to be a centenarian myself, and I also hope to continue to be as active as Berne."

Are you from Fort Myers?

"No, I'm from upstate New York, but I've lived in Florida over half a century and most of that time has been in Fort Myers. My husband, Ellis L. Keene, was born and raised here. He was a policeman and knew, or knew of, almost 'everyone,' including the Davis family.

Ellis grew up near the Edisons and Fords. He would tell stories about his childhood playing in the yards of the famous inventor and the founder of the Ford Motor Company."

Do you have anything else to share about Berne Davis?

"I'd like to say happy birthday, and thank you Berne Davis for your support in the arts. I'd say all artists, musicians, horticulturists and thespians would thank her (the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center) as well!"

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Deborah Smith Ford has been a resident of Florida for multiple decades, and a good percentage of those years were spent in Fort Myers. Part of Ford's background includes being an actress in the film and television industry and, as a result, she has been made more aware of what the city offers in entertainment.